RCMP launch homicide investigation into deaths

The deaths of Blaine Albert Barfoot, 29, and Tara Lee Ann Williams, 40, of Vanderhoof are now being considered by RCMP as homicides and a manhunt is on to track down an unidentified third person who RCMP believe may be injured.

The discovery of the bodies in a Silvermill Road home on Sunday, Jan. 13, was immediately deemed suspicious by RCMP, but further investigation has led the North District Major Crime Unit to believe the pair were murdered.

Constable Lesley Smith, media relations officer for the North District RCMP, said the victims led a “high-risk lifestyle” and were known to Vanderhoof police, but she was unable to elaborate.

On Wednesday, Smith said a third party may have been involved and possibly injured during the incident.

“Police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying anyone who may have a recent injury to their arms or hands,” stated Smith.

“We believe the injury may have occurred during this incident and are asking anyone with information to please call the RCMP.”

Police are not disclosing details of the murders citing an ongoing investigation.

Despite a rash of other murders in B.C. over the same time period, including a stabbing in Nanaimo, a double homicide in Hope and four killings in Surrey, Smith said the RCMP consider the Vanderhoof deaths an isolated incident.

The RCMP is asking anyone with information related to the double homicide to contact the Vanderhoof RCMP at 250.567.2222. To remain anonymous, the RCMP advises the public to call Crimestoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS (8477).